Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint Hike: A Guide To All 3 Viewpoints

The Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint hike is one of the most popular things to do on the island, and for good reason. Here’s everything you need to know before heading up, including the entrance fee, what to expect, and which viewpoint is actually worth the climb.

If you are planning a backpacking trip around Thailand, chances are you have already seen the famous Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint all over Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. It is definitely no hidden gem, but after hiking up there myself, I can confirm the view still lives up to the hype.

The Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint hike is short but steep, taking around 20 minutes to reach Viewpoint 1 and roughly 40 minutes to reach Viewpoint 2, which was easily my favourite.

From the top, you can look down over the narrow strip of land between Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay, with bright blue water on either side.

Entry costs 50 THB / US$1.50 for Viewpoints 1 and 2, with another 20 THB / $0.60 if you continue up to Viewpoint 3.

Koh Phi Phi itself is heavily influenced by its party scene, but hiking above the busy streets gives you a completely different perspective of the island. To be honest I didn’t enjoy my trip to Koh Phi Phi due to the nightlife, but I’ll say the nature here was beautiful.

In this guide, I’ll cover how to get there, the entrance fees, what to expect at each viewpoint, and whether it is worth continuing all the way to Viewpoint 3.

Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint	Quick Answer
Worth it?	Yes, especially Viewpoint 2
Time	20–40 mins
Difficulty	Short but steep
Cost	From 50 THB / US$1.50
Best viewpoint	Viewpoint 2 for photos, Viewpoint 3 for sunset
Best time	Early morning or sunset

Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint: All You Need To Know About Visiting

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Is The Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint Hike Worth It?

Yes, I definitely think the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint hike is worth doing. Koh Phi Phi itself wasn’t one of my favourite places in Thailand, mostly because of the party scene, but seeing the island from above gave me a whole new appreciation.

In all honesty, I wasn’t too fussed about doing the Phi Phi Viewpoint at first as my hotel had an epic view from the infinity pool.

It actually wasn’t until my last day, when I had some time between checking out and the ferry to Phuket that I decided to test my limits, and I’m glad I did.

From the top, you get views over the narrow strip of land between Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay, with bright blue water on either side.

It’s easily one of the best views on the island and, even better, one of the few things to do in Koh Phi Phi that won’t make your backpacker budget cry.

Find out how I backpacked Thailand on $23.00 per day

There are three different viewpoints along the trail, each with a slightly different view. The hike is short but steep, though I recommend just heading up to viewpoint 2 unless you’re keen to watch the sunset.

view over koh phi phi from on top of the rock face — standing on top of the phi phi lookout

Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint Hike At A Glance

Viewpoint	Worth it?	Approx Hike Time	Best for
Viewpoint 1	★★★☆☆	10 mins	Quick stop
Viewpoint 2	★★★★★	20 mins	Classic postcard view
Viewpoint 3	★★★★☆	30 mins	Sunset & fewer crowds

Difficulty: The trail is short but steep, with plenty of stairs and very little shade.

Read my 3 weeks in Thailand itinerary with all the highlights for first timers!

How To Get To Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint

Koh Phi Phi may be small, but the maze of narrow streets around Tonsai Village can still get a little confusing.

Google Maps should point you in the right direction, though I always recommend downloading the island map offline before setting off.

Route 1: From Tonsai Village Via The Stairs

Luckily, once you find the beginning of the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint hike, the route is well signposted and pretty difficult to get lost on. The main entrance is on the eastern side of Tonsai Village.

Walk away from the pier towards Harmony House and follow the signs for Viewpoint 1 and the Tsunami Evacuation Route until you reach a long and daunting set of concrete stairs.

The stairs look pretty intimidating when you first arrive, but honestly, this is the hardest-looking part of the hike. The amount of time I walked past these stairs during the climb up another large hill to my accommodation.

Take your time, stop whenever you need to, and bring plenty of water, especially if you are walking during the hottest part of the day.

Once you reach the top of the main staircase, the trail becomes much easier to follow. It’s a popular and well-worn route, with signs directing you toward Viewpoints 1, 2 and 3.

From Tonsai Village, allow roughly 20 minutes to reach Viewpoint 1 and a little longer if you are taking plenty of breaks. There is no need to rush. Trust me, the view will still be waiting when you get there.

Route 2: The Longer Road Route

There’s also a longer road route around the back of the island that avoids most of the steep staircase. Now, be aware that this will take considerably longer at around an hour.

Though the bonus is that it will be a lot less strenuous, and if you have bad knees, this could make a big difference.

Make sure you have an offline map downloaded before attempting it, as this route takes you away from the busiest part of Tonsai Village.

This route will be your go-to if you’re staying around Long Beach or on the reservoir side.

Other Routes From Around Koh Phi Phi

If you’re staying outside of Tonsai Village, there are a few other trails leading to the viewpoints.

Visitors staying around Loh Dalum Bay, Long Beach, Relax Beach, or the northern part of the island can reach the viewpoint without needing to walk all the way back into town.

These routes are generally quieter but can be longer, steeper, and less obvious to follow than the main staircase route. If you decide to take one of these trails, make sure to avoid them after dark or after heavy rain.

the hiking trail leading up to koh phi phi viewpoint 2 — the hiking trail coming out of the thai jungle

How Long Does The Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint Hike Take?

It took me around 30 minutes to reach Viewpoint 2 from Tonsai Village, though I definitely wasn’t racing up there.

Viewpoint 1 is roughly 15 minutes from the bottom of the stairs, and then Viewpoint 3 is another 15 minutes or so further on.

The actual hike is pretty short, but I’d still allow around 1 to 2 hours all up. That gives you enough time to stop for a breather, take plenty of photos, and actually enjoy the view instead of rushing straight back down like I had to for the ferry!

There are also a few little bars near the top, which are perfect for a well-deserved drink before heading back down.

Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint Entrance Fee

The entrance fee for Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint is $1.50 / 50 THB. This is payable when you get to the first viewpoint. Do not try the hike to the viewpoint without any money as you will be turned around and asked to leave.

The entrance fee for Koh Phi Phi Viewpoints 1 and 2 is 50 THB / US$1.50 per person, which you pay at the ticket booth near the first viewpoint.

If you want to continue all the way up to Viewpoint 3, there’s an additional fee of 20 THB/ US$0.60 which includes a bottle of water.

All up to visit the 3 viewpoints you will be charged $2.10 / 70 THB.

The viewpoints sit on privately owned land, and the entrance fees help cover the upkeep of the trails and viewing areas.

I’d bring a little more cash than the exact amount, as prices can occasionally change and there are also drinks available to buy near the top.

How Difficult Is The Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint Hike?

I’d rate the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint hike as easy to moderate. It isn’t particularly long, but the steep staircase at the beginning can definitely get your heart pumping, especially in the heat.

The good news is that you don’t need to be an experienced hiker. Just take your time, stop for breaks, and bring plenty of water.

After the main staircase, the trail becomes much more manageable as you continue toward Viewpoints 1, 2, and 3.

I wore flip-flops, which honestly wasn’t the easiest, as you can imagine. Definitely try to wear actual walking shoes if you’ve packed them.

Funnily enough, this small hike was essentially my only training for the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal, which I was doing 1 week later.

Which Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint Is Best?

For me, Viewpoint 2 was easily the best of the three. This is where you get that classic postcard view over Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay, with the narrow strip of land running between them.

Though let’s get into the details of each one:

Phi Phi Viewpoint 1

After tackling the steep staircase, Phi Phi Viewpoint 1 is the first stop you’ll reach. This is also known as the “I Love Phi Phi Viewpoint” thanks to its colourful sign.

Here is where you’ll pay the entry fee as well. Hold onto this ticket as you will need it to enter the second viewpoint. There’s a little store where you can buy drinks and a few benches to rest your legs.

Honestly, this wasn’t my favourite viewpoint. The view is nice, but I found the giant sign pretty tacky. I snapped a quick photo, caught my breath, and headed straight towards Viewpoint 2.

If you’re only after the famous “I Love Phi Phi” photo, this might be enough. However, if you want the classic panoramic view over the island, I’d definitely recommend continuing a little further uphill.

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Phi Phi Viewpoint 2: The Classic Koh Phi Phi View

The hardest part of the hike is behind you by this point, and the walk from Viewpoint 1 to Viewpoint 2 should only take another 10 to 15 minutes. The trail is well signposted and much easier than the staircase at the beginning, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding your way.

Once I reached Viewpoint 2, this is where I became properly impressed, and the photographer in me came alive. The views were absolutely insane, with the lush green island below and bright blue water surrounding me on both sides.

Because I arrived relatively early in the day, there was only one other couple there, which made the whole experience even better.

This viewpoint feels far more natural than Viewpoint 1, with large rocks overlooking the jungle and that classic postcard view over Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay.

There is also a small cafe at the viewpoint where you can grab a cold drink or something to eat. Prices are understandably a little higher than in town, but after the climb, sitting down and taking in the view feels pretty worth it, there’s even AC inside!

viewpoint 2 at koh phi phi — the perfect photo op at phi phi viewpoint 2

Phi Phi Viewpoint 3: Is It Worth Continuing?

Viewpoint 3 is the one to aim for if you really want to escape the crowds. Most people stop at Viewpoint 2, so it’s generally much quieter and more relaxed at the top.

Just be aware that the final section gets steep again, so you’ll definitely feel it after already climbing to the first two viewpoints.

There’s also another small entrance fee of 20 THB/ US$0.60 when you arrive, though this includes a much-needed bottle of water.

Unfortunately, I ran out of time and had to head back down to catch my ferry, so I didn’t personally make it all the way to Viewpoint 3.

In hindsight, that was probably lucky because around 40 minutes later, the heavens opened and the trail would’ve quickly turned into a slippery mess.

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When Is The Best Time To Visit Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint?

The best time really depends on what you’re hoping to get out of your visit. If you’re anything like me and want the best photos with the fewest crowds, timing can make a huge difference.

Visiting In The Morning

Morning was definitely my favourite time to do the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint hike. ‘We started walking up at around 9 am, and apart from the person selling tickets, there was only one other couple at Viewpoint 2.

If you’re hoping for the best photos, I’d recommend arriving between 9 am and 11 am.

During the morning, the sun sits behind you, lighting up both bays and making the water look that incredible bright blue you see in all the photos. It is also much cooler than hiking during the middle of the day.

Is Sunset Worth It?

If you’re visiting for sunset, I’d recommend continuing all the way to Viewpoint 3.

It has the best angle towards the setting sun, while Viewpoints 1 and 2 are better suited to daytime views over the centre of the island.

Just keep in mind that you definitely won’t have the place to yourself. Sunset is one of the busiest times to visit, so expect plenty of other travellers making the climb.

You’ll also want to bring a torch or use your phone light for the walk back down after dark.

koh phi phi from viepwoint 3 at sunset — a pretty decent sunset spot- just be aware you wont actually be able to see the sun duck under the horizon

My Top Tips For The Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint Hike

Here are a few extra things worth knowing before you start the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint hike. They may seem small, but they can make the climb a lot more enjoyable.

Leave The Beers Behind

As tempting as it sounds to enjoy a cold beer with one of the best views on Koh Phi Phi, alcohol isn’t allowed at any of the viewpoints.

There are signs at the entrance warning of fines of up to 1,000 THB / US$32.00, so it really isn’t worth the risk.

Luckily, there are cold soft drinks, snacks, and even a cafe near the top, so you can still reward yourself after the climb.

The Highest Viewpoint Is Around 186 Metres

The highest point sits around 186 metres above sea level. That may not sound particularly high, but add in the steep stairs, humidity and Thai heat, and you’ll definitely feel it in your legs.

Take your time and don’t underestimate how much harder even a pretty short hike can feel in the middle of the day.

Keep An Eye Out For Monkeys

Yes, there are definitely monkeys around the trails, but please don’t feed them or try to get too close. Seriously once you’ve experienced the wrath of monkeys, they quickly become not cute!

They’ll quickly snatch food, bottles or anything else that catches their attention. Keep snacks packed away, hold onto your belongings and give them plenty of space.

A monkey bite or scratch can mean needing urgent medical treatment, which is definitely not how you want to end your time on Koh Phi Phi.

looking over tonsai village — the view looking over ton sai village

Planning More Of Your Koh Phi Phi Trip?

The viewpoint may be one of the highlights, but there is plenty more to do while you are on the island. From visiting Maya Bay and snorkelling around Phi Phi Leh to kayaking across to Monkey Beach, you’ll definitely want to allow more than a few hours here.

For everything else, check out my complete backpacking Koh Phi Phi travel guide, where I cover the best things to do, where to stay, places to eat, costs, and all my honest thoughts on whether the island is actually worth the hype.

You may also find these guides helpful:

Backpacking Koh Lanta: Where to head next for a much more relaxed island experience

Krabi To Koh Phi Phi: The easiest ways to reach the island

3 Weeks In Thailand Itinerary: How Koh Phi Phi fits into a longer Thailand trip

looking out over the bay on one side of koh phi phi — view over looking the bay on one side of the island

Where To Stay In Koh Phi Phi?

One thing I quickly realised is that Koh Phi Phi is much hillier than it looks. While the island itself is small, where you stay can make a big difference if you’re planning on doing the viewpoint hike.

If you want to be close to the trail, I’d recommend staying around Tonsai Village or Loh Dalum Bay. You’ll be within easy walking distance of the viewpoint, restaurants, bars, and the ferry pier.

Voyagers Hostel

A recently opened hostel with spacious air-conditioned dorm rooms. Starting room $16.00 per night.

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Dee Dee Sea Front

A great option for solo travelers. Dorm with privacy curtains rooms start from $17.00 per night.

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Phi Phi Maiyada Resort

A beautiful resort for just $20.00 per night. They offer budget rooms for travelers which are also air-conditioned.

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Saii Phi Phi Island Village

If you have a bit more money to spend why not check this out. From $100.00 per night for a 5 star resort.

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FAQs About The Viewpoints In Koh Phi Phi

Can you drive or take a taxi to Phi Phi Viewpoint?

There are no regular taxis or public cars on Koh Phi Phi, though you may occasionally find a local offering a motorbike ride along the longer back roads. It isn’t reliable, so most visitors walk to the viewpoint via the main staircase or one of the alternative trails.

Can you visit for sunrise?

Yes, you can visit Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint for sunrise, and it will usually be much quieter than sunset. Just make sure you bring a torch for the walk up in the dark and check the weather before setting off.

Which Phi Phi Viewpoint has the best view?

Viewpoint 2 offers the best views and is where you’ll get the classic postcard photo of Koh Phi Phi. If you’re short on time, this is the one I’d recommend visiting.

Wrap Up: All About Hiking To The Phi Phi Viewpoints

Even though Koh Phi Phi wasn’t one of my favourite places in Thailand, I still think the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint hike is well worth doing. The climb is short, the entrance fee is affordable, and the views over the island are some of the best you’ll find.

If you’re only planning on visiting one viewpoint, I’d recommend making the extra effort to reach Viewpoint 2. It was easily my favourite and is where you’ll get that iconic view.

Just make sure you start early, bring plenty of water, and leave yourself enough time to actually enjoy the view before heading back down. Trust me, you’ll regret rushing it like I did to catch the ferry!

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

If you are in Koh Phi Phi it is likely you will want to venture out the side of the hill to check out some of the incredible views. Find out absolutely everything you need to know about the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint such as how to get there, what to expect, entry fees, how far you can go up, and more important information!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

“koh phi phi” (CC BY 2.0) by Laura.